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Pearce fears West Ham could be stuck in relegation battle

Former West Ham coach Stuart Pearce fears they risk being stuck in the relegation battle this season.

Pearce has warned the Hammers they need to get their act together fast, or be faced with playing catch-up for the remainder of the campaign.

Asked if he is surprised by West Ham's early season struggles, the former England defender told talkSPORT: “Yes, especially when you look at the money that has been spent this summer.

“But the other side of that is Manuel is still getting to know the players, not only the ones he had already got there but also the nine new ones who have come through the door.

“I don't expect them to be around this position at the end of the season, but a good start in the Premier League is absolutely vital and unless they galvanise a result very soon they're going to be permanently playing catch-up.

“They have a tough run of games coming up – Everton away and then Chelsea, Spurs and Man United all at home.

“But we beat Chelsea and drew with Arsenal at home last season, and West Ham are the sort of side who can go out and beat one of these teams.